tag:www.gov.uk,2005:/government/announcementsAnnouncements on GOV.UKHM Government2018-03-19T00:00:06+00:00tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3819172018-03-19T00:00:06+00:002018-03-19T00:00:06+00:00Press release: Government announces major programme to tackle inequalities in youth unemploymentPM announces £90 million programme to help tackle inequalities in youth unemployment highlighted by the Race Disparity Audit’s website. <div class="govspeak"><p>Prime Minister Theresa May has announced the launch of an innovative new programme to address ethnic disparities in youth unemployment and to help disadvantaged young people get into work.</p>
<p>The announcement comes after Theresa May’s challenge to society to ‘explain or change’ disparities in how people from different backgrounds are treated, following the publication of the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/race-disparity-audit">Race Disparity Audit</a> – the government’s ground-breaking audit of public services, from central government to local communities, launched last October.</p>
<p>The £90 million youth programme, designed jointly by the Big Lottery Fund, DCMS, DfE and DWP, will be shaped by evidence from the Race Disparity Audit, which highlighted the differences in outcomes facing young people from different backgrounds in different parts of England.</p>
<p>It will offer young people the chance to work directly with educators and youth and community organisations – who will consider how their skills can benefit their local communities and businesses.</p>
<p>Young people will feed into the programme’s design, working with educators, youth and community organisations and businesses to demonstrate how their skills and talents can benefit their local economies.</p>
<p>Today’s announcement marks the start of an engagement phase which will see the government and the Big Lottery Fund running a series of workshops with young people from across the country to gather evidence about the unique challenges they face in making the transition from education to employment.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister also today announces the Race Disparity Audit Advisory Group, chaired by Simon Woolley. The Advisory Group will challenge, steer and support government departments to develop interventions to tackle disparities found in the Audit - and will drive civil society, businesses and local government to take action.</p>
<p>Figures from the <a rel="external" href="https://www.ethnicity-facts-figures.service.gov.uk/">Ethnicity Facts and Figures website</a> show that young people from ethnic minorities between the ages of 16 and 24 are almost twice as likely to be unemployed (23%) as their white peers (12%) – despite having similar qualifications.</p>
<p>Later today, the Prime Minister will visit a Birmingham-based youth employment charity, which has helped thousands of young people to find work since 2010. The charity runs programmes helping unemployed 16 to 24 year-olds develop key skills in team work, leadership, communication and discipline – providing them with the necessary skills to gain qualifications and work experience so they can move into sustainable employment or further training.</p>
<p>On the visit, Theresa May will speak to young people about the barriers they have experienced in finding work, and will also meet young people who have successfully completed training and gone into full-time employment.</p>
<p>Prime Minister Theresa May said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Youth unemployment blights communities and wastes talent and potential – and too many young people from deprived and ethnic minority backgrounds face barriers preventing them from entering the world of work.</p>
<p>Evidence from the Race Disparity Audit clearly shows that while the educational attainment gap between people of different backgrounds has narrowed over time, this has not been reflected in getting jobs.</p>
<p>Talent, ability and hard work should be the only factors affecting a young person’s ability to get on in life – not their background or ethnicity.</p>
<p class="last-child">The launch of this ambitious programme, which has young people at its heart and draws on their direct experiences, will help to address the barriers holding many young lives back, and will support young people furthest from the labour market into employment, so they can achieve their full potential.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Dawn Austwick, Chief Executive of the Big Lottery Fund, said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Young people who are facing multiple barriers to employment are the best placed to tell us what needs to change for them.</p>
<p class="last-child">They will be at the heart of the process to shape solutions and create a dormant accounts youth programme that works for them by working with employers, educators, youth and community organisations.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Simon Woolley, Chair of the Race Disparity Advisory Group and Director of Operation Black Vote, said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">This intervention is driven by the Prime Minister’s leadership with support from NGOs. Our role is to find out where and how we can make the biggest impact on a range of issues including youth unemployment and the ethnic disparities within it.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3819182018-03-18T15:21:30+00:002018-03-18T15:21:30+00:00Press release: PM call with Prime Minister Morawiecki: 18 March 2018Prime Minister Theresa May spoke with Prime Minister Morawiecki of Poland about the nerve agent attack that recently took place in Salisbury.<div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Today the Prime Minister called Polish Prime Minister Morawiecki to discuss the use in Salisbury of a military grade nerve agent developed by Russia.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister said this was another example of an unacceptable pattern of aggressive Russian behaviour, and Prime Minister Morawiecki expressed his full solidarity with the UK in its response to this reckless act.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister thanked Prime Minister Morawiecki for his strong support and they agreed on the importance of a determined response from the European Union and the wider international community.</p>
<p class="last-child">They looked forward to meeting and holding further discussions on this matter at this week’s European Council.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3818732018-03-16T15:01:54+00:002018-03-16T15:01:54+00:00Press release: PM call with Prime Minister Gentiloni: 16 March 2018Prime Minister Theresa May spoke with Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni of Italy about the nerve agent attack that recently took place in Salisbury.<div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">This afternoon the Prime Minister discussed the Salisbury attack with Prime Minister Gentiloni of Italy.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">The Prime Minister reiterated that this was not just an act against the UK but a clear breach of chemical weapons convention.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">Prime Minister Gentiloni affirmed Italy’s full support and solidarity with the UK and the leaders agreed on the need for continued international co-operation to maintain pressure on Russia.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">They looked forward to meeting and holding further discussions at next week’s European Council.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3817752018-03-16T09:03:22+00:002018-03-16T09:03:22+00:00Press release: PM call with Prime Minister Turnbull: 16 March 2018Prime Minister Theresa May spoke with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull of Australia about the nerve agent attack that recently took place in Salisbury.<div class="govspeak"><p>A No 10 spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of Australia, Malcolm Turnbull, this morning about the attack on Sergei Skripal and his daughter and the reckless endangerment of the British public through the use of a military grade nerve agent developed by Russia.</p>
<p>Prime Minister Turnbull said he joined the Prime Minister in her condemnation of the appalling act and expressed his complete solidarity with the UK and its response to the attack.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister explained how she had visited the site at Salisbury yesterday and reiterated how the act represented an unlawful use of force by the Russian state against the UK.</p>
<p>On the UK’s response, she explained how it will expel 23 Russian diplomats who have been identified as undeclared Russian intelligence officers, develop new legislative powers to harden our defences against such hostile activity and suspend all planned high-level contacts between the UK and the Russian Federation.</p>
<p class="last-child">She thanked Prime Minister Turnbull for his strong support and they agreed on the importance of the international community coming together to take a stand against this despicable act.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3817642018-03-15T20:45:05+00:002018-03-15T20:45:05+00:00Press release: PM hosts Business Advisory Council meeting: 15 MarchPrime Minister Theresa May hosts a Business Advisory Council meeting at Downing Street. <div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<p>“This afternoon the Prime Minister hosted a further meeting of her Business Advisory Council at Downing Street.</p>
<p>“The Prime Minister opened the roundtable with a summary of key moments in the past few weeks, including progress in the Brexit negotiations, the Chancellor’s Spring Statement and the Industrial Strategy.</p>
<p>“On the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, the Prime Minister spoke about the need to reach agreement with the EU on the terms of the implementation period ahead of the March European Council next week, which the attendees agreed would be vital in providing certainty to businesses and people across the UK.</p>
<p>“She then reiterated the themes from her Mansion House Speech which set out an ambitious partnership with the EU, one driven by principled practicality rather than ideology. The business leaders welcomed the detail provided in the speech and gave their support.</p>
<p>“The Prime Minister and business leaders also discussed the government’s Industrial Strategy, agreeing on the importance for government and business to work together on all aspects of the plan, particularly investing in the infrastructure and skills needed to support UK productivity growth and the ambition of the government’s “Grand Challenges”.</p>
<p>“The meeting was also attended by the Chancellor of the Exchequer who provided an update on the Spring Statement, the Business Secretary, Greg Clark, who discussed the Industrial Strategy and Brexit Minister, Suella Fernandes, who spoke about Ministerial engagement with European Member States.”</p>
<h2 id="attendees">Attendees</h2>
<p>Ivan Menezes, CEO, Diageo</p>
<p>Constantin Cotzias, Director of Bloomberg Europe, Bloomberg</p>
<p>António Horta-Osório, CEO, Lloyds Banking Group</p>
<p>Jan du Plessis, Chairman, BT</p>
<p>Moya Greene, CEO, Royal Mail</p>
<p>Sir Charlie Mayfield, CEO, John Lewis Partnership</p>
<p>Ian Davis, Chairman, Rolls Royce</p>
<p>Mike Cherry OBE, National Chairman, FSB</p>
<p>Dr Adam Marshall, DG, BCC</p>
<p>Stephen Phipson CBE, DG, EEF</p>
<p>Carolyn Fairbairn, DG, CBI</p>
<p>Jayne-Anne Gadhia CBE, CEO, Virgin Money plc</p>
<p>Dame Helena, Head of Personal Investing, Legal &amp; General Group plc</p>
<p>Oliver Benzecry, Chairman and Senior Managing Director, Accenture, UK and Ireland</p>
<p>Dame Carolyn McCall, CEO, ITV</p>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3816272018-03-15T13:04:00+00:002018-03-15T13:04:00+00:00Press release: Salisbury attack: Joint statement from the leaders of France, Germany, the United States and the United KingdomThe leaders of France, Germany, the United States and the United Kingdom have issued the following joint statement on the attack which took place in Salisbury, UK. <div class="govspeak"><p>We, the leaders of France, Germany, the United States and the United Kingdom, abhor the attack that took place against Sergei and Yulia Skripal in Salisbury, UK, on 4 March 2018. A British police officer who was also exposed in the attack remains seriously ill, and the lives of many innocent British citizens have been threatened. We express our sympathies to them all, and our admiration for the UK police and emergency services for their courageous response.</p>
<p>This use of a military-grade nerve agent, of a type developed by Russia, constitutes the first offensive use of a nerve agent in Europe since the Second World War. It is an assault on UK sovereignty and any such use by a State party is a clear violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention and a breach of international law. It threatens the security of us all.</p>
<p>The United Kingdom briefed thoroughly its allies that it was highly likely that Russia was responsible for the attack. We share the UK assessment that there is no plausible alternative explanation, and note that Russia´s failure to address the legitimate request by the UK government further underlines its responsibility. We call on Russia to address all questions related to the attack in Salisbury. Russia should in particular provide full and complete disclosure of the Novichok programme to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).</p>
<p>Our concerns are also heightened against the background of a pattern of earlier irresponsible Russian behaviour. We call on Russia to live up to its responsibilities as a member of the UN Security Council to uphold international peace and security.</p>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3815642018-03-15T10:29:00+00:002018-03-15T10:29:00+00:00Press release: PM call with President Macron: 15 March 2018Prime Minister Theresa May spoke with President Macron of France about the Sailsbury nerve agent attack. <div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Prime Minister spoke with President Macron today following her statement to the House of Commons on the Salisbury nerve agent attack.</p>
<p>the Prime Minister updated the President on the investigation and the measures she had announced in Parliament yesterday, including the expulsion of 23 Russian diplomats who have been identified as undeclared intelligence officers.</p>
<p>President Macron said that France completely shares the UK’s assessment that there is no plausible explanation other than that Russia was responsible for the attack and he once again expressed his full support for the UK as a close and strong ally.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister and the President reiterated their condemnation of the use of all chemical weapons and said they would continue to cooperate closely in this area.</p>
<p class="last-child">The Prime Minister thanked the President for his ongoing support, including at NATO, the United Nations Security Council and in the OPCW, and they agreed to remain in close contact as the situation developed and in the run up to the March European Council meeting where this would be discussed.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3815152018-03-14T22:17:00+00:002018-03-14T22:17:00+00:00Press release: PM call with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau: 14 March 2018Theresa May spoke to Justin Trudeau about the incident in Salisbury. <div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<p>“The Prime Minister spoke to Prime Minister Trudeau of Canada this evening to discuss the incident in Salisbury and the actions that the UK government is taking against Russia in response.</p>
<p>“Prime Minister May said the use of a military grade nerve agent on British soil was a reckless and shocking act.</p>
<p>“She thanked Prime Minister Trudeau for the strong message of support from Canada in recent days. He said that Canada would continue to stand squarely with the UK.</p>
<p>“They agreed on the importance of the international community showing solidarity at this time, and demonstrating a collective commitment to hold Russia to account for its unacceptable pattern of behaviour.”</p>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3815142018-03-14T21:03:00+00:002018-03-14T21:03:00+00:00Press release: PM meeting with Prime Minister Xavier Bettel of Luxembourg: 14 March 2018Prime Minister Theresa May met with Prime Minister Xavier Bettel of Luxembourg at Downing Street. <div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<p>“Prime Minister Theresa May hosted Prime Minister Xavier Bettel of Luxembourg for a meeting at Downing Street this afternoon.</p>
<p>“Prime Minister May began by providing an update on the Salisbury attack following her statement to Parliament earlier today and welcomed the strong support received from leaders across Europe. Prime Minister Bettel condemned the attack and those responsible.</p>
<p>“The leaders discussed the Mansion House speech and the Prime Minister’s vision for an ambitious future partnership with the EU after Brexit, building on the deep security relationship and economic ties the UK and EU have created together over the years.</p>
<p>“On Northern Ireland, the Prime Minister restated her commitment to the Belfast Agreement, to no hard border between Ireland and Northern Ireland and to preserving the integrity of the UK’s own common market. She highlighted that officials from the Irish government, the European Commission and the UK are meeting to discuss practical solutions.</p>
<p>“Finally, they looked ahead to the March European Council next week. Prime Minister May noted the importance of reaching an agreement on the implementation period in order to provide the certainty to businesses and people across the EU and the UK.”</p>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3815092018-03-14T18:18:39+00:002018-03-14T18:18:39+00:00Press release: PM meeting with First Minister Carwyn Jones: 14 March 2018Prime Minister Theresa May held talks with Welsh First Minister Carwyn Jones in Downing Street.<div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>After the latest Joint Ministerial Committee this afternoon, the Prime Minister met with the First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones.</p>
<p>Following on from discussions in the JMC, the First Minister and the Prime Minister agreed that they should continue to work together to find an agreement on the amendment to Clause 11 in the EU Withdrawal Bill.</p>
<p class="last-child">The First Minister also raised the Swansea Bay tidal lagoon, the devolution of Air Passenger Duty and the recent developments of the United States’ position on steel.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3815072018-03-14T17:56:38+00:002018-03-14T17:56:38+00:00Press release: PM meeting with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon: 14 March 2018Prime Minister Theresa May held talks with Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon in Downing Street.<div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">This afternoon, the Prime Minister met with the First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon ahead of the latest Joint Ministerial Committee between the UK government and devolved administrations.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">The Prime Minister updated the First Minister on the Brexit negotiations and made clear her commitment to a deal that works for the whole of the UK and protects the security and prosperity of all our communities.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">On devolution, they discussed the tabled amendment to the EU Withdrawal Bill that would ensure the vast majority of devolved powers will transfer directly to Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast and committed to continuing to work together to find an agreement.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">The Prime Minister also provided an update on the nerve agent attack in Salisbury and thanked the First Minister for her strong support of the actions the UK Government is taking against Russia in response.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3813422018-03-14T00:05:00+00:002018-03-14T00:05:00+00:00Press release: PM to meet ministers from devolved nations at Joint Ministerial CommitteePrime Minister Theresa May will meet with the devolved administrations to discuss the latest in the EU negotiations and how to work together to achieve a Brexit that works for the whole of the United Kingdom.<div class="govspeak"><p>The First Ministers of Scotland and Wales, along with representatives from the Northern Ireland Civil Service, will come to Downing Street for an update on the negotiations and to discuss recent progress on Clause 11 of the EU Withdrawal Bill, which would see the vast majority of returning devolved powers directly transferred to Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast. Domestic issues and the importance of Northern Ireland’s continued involvement in the process, in the absence of an Executive, will also be discussed.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister will make clear her absolute commitment to devolution, strengthening the Union and delivering legal certainty for businesses and consumers across the UK as we forge a new, deep and special partnership with the EU.</p>
<p>She will also confirm the government’s intention for the devolved nations to not only maintain their existing powers once we leave the EU but also gain significant new decision-making abilities, including across issues such as water quality and energy efficiency.</p>
<p>The devolved administrations will also be given an update on the latest on the investigation into the incident in Salisbury.</p>
<p>Speaking ahead of the meeting, the Prime Minister Theresa May said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>At this important meeting with the devolved administrations today, I will be making clear my commitment to a deal that brings our country together, protects the security and prosperity of all our communities and business sectors, and reinforces our Union of nations.</p>
<p>We will discuss the EU negotiations and EU Withdrawal Bill and how the UK Government has tabled an amendment that will ensure the vast majority of powers returning from the EU that cross over with devolved competencies will transfer directly to Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast.</p>
<p class="last-child">I am determined to secure a settlement that delivers an unprecedented democratic dividend for the people of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, while protecting and preserving the precious Union that is at the heart of our past, present and future success.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3813282018-03-13T18:26:00+00:002018-03-13T18:26:00+00:00Press release: PM call with Chancellor Merkel: 13 March 2018Prime Minister Theresa May spoke with Chancellor Merkel of Germany about the recent incident in Salisbury.<div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Prime Minister spoke to Chancellor Merkel earlier this afternoon to update her on the ongoing investigation into the Salisbury incident.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister set out the conclusion reached by the UK Government that it was highly likely that Russia was responsible for the attack against Sergei and Yulia Skripal.</p>
<p>They discussed the pattern of aggressive Russian behaviour and agreed it would be important to act in unison with allies to counter it.</p>
<p>Chancellor Merkel condemned the attack and said she stood in full solidarity with the UK.</p>
<p class="last-child">They agreed that the international community should coordinate closely as the investigation developed and in the wake of Russia’s response.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3813292018-03-13T18:23:00+00:002018-03-13T18:23:00+00:00Press release: PM call with President Trump: 13 March 2018The Prime Minister spoke with President Trump about the ongoing investigation into the incident in Salisbury. <div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Prime Minister spoke to President Trump earlier this afternoon to update him on the ongoing investigation into the Salisbury incident.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister set out the conclusion reached by the UK government that it was highly likely that Russia was responsible for the attack against Sergei and Yulia Skripal.</p>
<p class="last-child">President Trump said the US was with the UK all the way, agreeing that the Russian Government must provide unambiguous answers as to how this nerve agent came to be used.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3800282018-03-13T10:00:12+00:002018-03-13T10:00:12+00:00Press release: Queen approves appointment of Suffragan See of LancasterThe Queen has approved the appointment of Reverend Dr Jillian Duff as the next Suffragan Bishop of Lancaster.<div class="govspeak"><p>The Queen has approved the nomination of the Reverend Dr Jillian Louise Calland Duff, MA, Director of Mellitus College, North West, to the Suffragan See of Lancaster, in the Diocese of Blackburn. Dr Jillian Duff succeeds the Right Reverend Geoffrey Seagrove Pearson, BA, on his resignation of 31 July 2017.</p>
<p>Dr Jillian Duff (aged 45) was born and brought up in Bolton, Lancashire. She was educated at Christ College, Cambridge and Worcester College, Oxford. After working in the oil industry, she trained for the ministry at Wycliffe Hall Oxford. Dr Duff served her title at St Philip’s, Litherland, in the Diocese of Liverpool from 2003 to 2005. From 2005 Dr Duff took up the role of Pioneer Minister, church planting in Liverpool City Centre till 2011. In 2009 Dr Duff was appointed Chaplain to Liverpool College. In 2011 she worked as IME tutor and Vocations Development Advisor in the Diocese of Liverpool. From 2012 she worked to build a partnership between the North West Bishops and St Mellitus College, London and in 2013 became the founding Director of St Mellitus College, North West, based at Liverpool Cathedral, while serving at St Paul’s Widnes.</p>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3811842018-03-12T21:45:00+00:002018-03-12T21:45:00+00:00Press release: PM call with President Macron: 12 MarchPrime Minister Theresa May spoke with President Macron of France about the recent incident in Salisbury.<div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesman said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Prime Minister spoke to President Macron of France to update him on the latest situation regarding the incident in Salisbury on 4 March.</p>
<p>She outlined the conclusion reached by the Government that it was highly likely that Russia was responsible for the act against Sergei and Yulia Skripal.</p>
<p>They discussed the wide pattern of aggressive Russian behaviour and agreed that it would be important to continue to act in concert with allies to address it.</p>
<p>President Macron condemned the attack and offered his solidarity with the UK.</p>
<p class="last-child">They agreed that the French and British governments should coordinate closely as the investigation developed and following Russia’s response.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3799072018-03-09T14:00:03+00:002018-03-09T14:00:03+00:00Press release: PM commissions industry taskforce on social impact investmentPrime Minister Theresa May has asked Elizabeth Corley, Vice-Chair of Allianz Global Investors, to lead an industry taskforce on impact investment.<div class="govspeak"><p>The taskforce will progress the recommendations in the ‘Growing a Culture of Social Impact Investing in the UK’ report, published by an advisory group chaired by Elizabeth Corley.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister has asked the taskforce to provide a progress report to Matt Hancock, Secretary of State for Culture and John Glen, Economic Secretary to the Treasury by the summer. The government is also expected to announce its policy response in the summer.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>The UK is a pioneer in impact investing. Our financial institutions have long-recognised the importance of using their investments to generate a positive social impact as well as a financial return.</p>
<p class="last-child">The challenge now is for industry to unlock the capital to boost impact investment even further, finding solutions to some of the burning injustices we face as a society, and helping make sure the country works for everyone.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Social impact investing gives people the opportunity to put their money to work for social good, as well as financial return.</p>
<p>The taskforce will work on generating a faster rate of innovation in the financial services industry to provide products that give savers and investors the opportunity to make a social impact.</p>
<p>Elizabeth Corley, Vice-Chair of Allianz Global Investors said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Government has a vital role to play in accelerating the development of UK social impact investing, so it is very encouraging to hear the Prime Minister voice her support for creating a culture of social impact investing in the UK and the work of the taskforce going forward.</p>
<p class="last-child">With research showing that more than half of people in the UK are interested in purchasing social impact investment products but that only 9% have done so, this is a market with enormous potential, waiting to be unlocked by the type of focus and commitment announced today.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Today’s announcement follows a meeting the PM held last week with senior executives from some of the UK’s largest financial firms and impact investing pioneers, where she threw her weight behind social impact investment.</p>
<p>And the PM has asked Sajid Javid, Secretary of State for Housing to consider what measures government could take to unlock and boost social impact investment, particularly in tackling issues like left-behind parts of the country, homelessness and housing for vulnerable people.</p>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3797752018-03-09T10:00:00+00:002018-03-09T10:00:00+00:00Press release: Nomination of Suffragan Bishop of Bradwell: 9 March 2018The Queen has approved the nomination of the Venerable Dr John Perumbalath.<div class="govspeak"><p>The Queen has approved the nomination of the Venerable Dr John Perumbalath, BA, BD, MA, MTh, PhD, Archdeacon of Barking, in the Diocese of Chelmsford, to the Suffragan See of Bradwell, in the Diocese of Chelmsford in succession to the Right Reverend John Michael Wraw, BA, who died on 25 July 2017.</p>
<p>The Venerable Dr John Perumbalath (52) hails from the ancient Syrian Christian community in Kerala, India, and trained for ministry at Union Biblical Seminary, Pune. Before his ordination he worked as a youth worker among university students for two years and as a theological educator for three years. He was a parish priest in the diocese of Calcutta (Church of North India) from 1995 to 2001. He served on the General Synod of CNI and on its Theological Commission. Since his move to the United Kingdom, he served in the diocese of Rochester as Associate Priest at St George’s Beckenham(2002-05), Team Vicar in Northfleet &amp; Rosherville (2005-08), Vicar of All Saints, Perry Street &amp; Diocesan Urban Officer (2008-13) before he was appointed the Archdeacon of Barking in 2013.</p>
<p>John also holds a wider role locally and nationally. He chairs the Committee for Minority Ethnic Anglican Concerns (CMEAC) and London Churches Refugee Network. He is a member of the General Synod and sits on the Appointment Committee of the Church of England, Mission &amp; Public Affairs Council, and the trustee board of Westcott House, Cambridge.</p>
<p>John is married to Jessy, a Mathematics teacher and they have a daughter, Anugraha, a medical student. John has contributed reflections for Church House Publishing and has taken up speaking engagements in various provinces of Anglican Communion. He holds postgraduate degrees in Philosophy and Biblical studies and a doctorate in hermeneutics.</p>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3798502018-03-08T19:12:00+00:002018-03-08T19:12:00+00:00Press release: European business leaders' roundtable: 8 March 2018Prime Minister Theresa May hosted key business leaders from across the EU at Downing Street to discuss progress in the UK’s exit from the EU.<div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>This afternoon the Prime Minister hosted key business leaders from across the EU at Downing Street to discuss progress in the UK’s exit from the EU.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister opened the roundtable by welcoming the opportunity to discuss her vision for an ambitious future partnership with the EU following her speech at Mansion House last Friday.</p>
<p>Within this discussion she provided reassurance on the UK’s commitment to maintain high regulatory standards and to seek arrangements which will support industries across the EU and the UK.</p>
<p>The roundtable attendees also discussed the implementation period, with the Prime Minister reaffirming the commitment on both sides of the negotiation for the terms to be agreed at the upcoming March European Council, which the business leaders welcomed.</p>
<p class="last-child">The meeting was also attended by Robin Walker, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Exiting the European Union, and John Glen, the Economic Secretary to the Treasury.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="attendees">ATTENDEES:</h3>
<p>José María Álvarez-Pallete López, Chairman &amp; CEO, Telefónica S.A.</p>
<p>Dr. Steffen Hoffmann, President of Bosch UK, Bosch</p>
<p>Daniel Křetínský, Chairman of the Board of Directors, EPH</p>
<p>Véronique Laury, Chief Executive Officer, Kingfisher</p>
<p>Angelique Magielse, Managing Director, Abellio</p>
<p>Francesca McDonagh, Group Chief Executive Officer, Bank of Ireland</p>
<p>Dr. Ian Robertson, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Sales and Brand BMW, Aftersales BMW Group</p>
<p>Søren Skou, Chief Executive Officer, A.P. Møller Mærsk</p>
<p>József Váradi, Chief Executive Officer, Wizz Air</p>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3797152018-03-07T19:28:00+00:002018-03-07T19:28:00+00:00Press release: PM meeting with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia: 7 March 2018Prime Minister Theresa May jointly hosted the inaugural meeting of the UK-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman.<div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Prime Minister jointly hosted the inaugural meeting of the UK-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman, at Downing Street earlier today.</p>
<p>The meeting agreed a landmark ambition for around £65bn of mutual trade and investment opportunities over the coming years, including direct investment in the UK and new Saudi public procurement with UK companies. This is a significant boost for UK prosperity and a clear demonstration of the strong international confidence in our economy as we prepare to leave the European Union.</p>
<p>These new investment and procurement opportunities will be spread across a range of sectors including education, training and skills, financial and investment services, culture and entertainment, healthcare services and life sciences, technology and renewable energy and the defence industry.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister said the UK was a firm supporter of Saudi Arabia’s ‘Vision 2030’, an ambitious blueprint for internal reform that aims to create a thriving economy and a vibrant society – conditions that we agree are essential to the Kingdom’s long-term stability and success. She noted that as a world leader across a range of sectors, the UK was uniquely placed to partner Saudi Arabia in delivering these vital reforms.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister welcomed recent reforms in Saudi Arabia, including on women attending sporting events and the cinema, and being legally able to drive from June. The Prime Minister and Crown Prince agreed that we should continue working together to explore ways the UK can support Saudi Arabia to progress and intensify these reforms, particularly on women’s rights, and on universal human rights, where the Prime Minister noted our particular concerns in the case of Raif Badawi.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister and the Crown Prince agreed a new education partnership which will see UK experts help the Saudi education system implement their ambitious domestic reform programme, increasing levels of female participation and boosting inclusivity. This will include UK experts undertaking a comprehensive analysis of the Saudi education system, and sharing best practice and recommendations for modernisation. We will embed gender equality, equal access and equal treatment in all aspects of our programme of support.</p>
<p class="last-child">Following the meeting of the Strategic Partnership Council, the Prime Minister and the Crown Prince received a briefing from UK national security officials on foreign policy issues, including Yemen.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>The Prime Minister raised our deep concerns at the humanitarian situation in Yemen. The Prime Minister and Crown Prince agreed on the importance of full and unfettered humanitarian and commercial access, including through the ports, and that a political solution was ultimately the only way to end the conflict and humanitarian suffering in Yemen.</p>
<p class="last-child">They also discussed Iran, agreeing on the importance of working together to counter Iran’s destabilising regional activity, and Iraq, including the importance of supporting reconstruction efforts.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3792392018-03-01T21:48:00+00:002018-03-07T15:24:55+00:00Press release: PM welcomes guests to No 10 to celebrate St David’s DayThe Prime Minister hosted a St David’s Day reception at No 10 to celebrate Wales’ national day and recognise Wales as a great part of the United Kingdom.<p><em>Updated:</em> Welsh translation added</p><div class="govspeak"><p>Theresa May and Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns welcomed people from all parts of the UK including figures from Welsh business, politics, sport, charities and the media.</p>
<p>Guests included Welsh Red Arrows Pilot Flight Lieutenant Mike Bowden; Welsh TV personality Matt Johnson; former Welsh rugby international Richard Parks; Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson; and London marathon runner Matthew Rees, who was made famous last year when he helped a struggling runner get across the finish line.</p>
<p>A number of Welsh companies attended to showcase their produce, including Penderyn Distillery, who produce award-winning single malt whiskies and spirits in Brecon Beacons, South Wales; Cwm Farm Charcuterie, who were awarded first place at the Great British Farm Produce Awards and a gold star from the Great Taste Awards for their laverbread sausage; and Ridiculously Rich By Alana – a company created by winner of BBC One’s The Apprentice, Alana, who started to sell her luxury chocolate to friends and family before attracting the interest of shops in Aberystwyth.</p>
<p>The Culinary Association of Wales also served up a selection of Welsh canapés, and a Welsh choir from Côr y Boro and harpist Rhys Wardhaugh played traditional Welsh tunes.</p>
<h3 id="prime-minister-theresa-may-said">Prime Minister Theresa May said:</h3>
<blockquote>
<p>It is always a privilege to celebrate Wales’ national day alongside Welsh people from every walk of life and every part of the country.</p>
<p>Many of the companies who were represented here today are exporting across Europe and around the globe – showing just how much Wales has to offer at home and to the world.</p>
<p>From sport, business, to entertainment and music, the Welsh make their indelible mark in every possible sphere of society.</p>
<p class="last-child">Thank you to everyone who came here today, despite the bad weather, to celebrate the very best of Welsh life and for Wales making the UK the country it is. The nations of the UK each have their own unique characters, cultures and needs - but when we come together as one, we are all the better for it.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="secretary-of-state-for-wales-alun-cairns-said">Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns said:</h3>
<blockquote>
<p>Today was an extremely important day for the whole of Wales. Despite the snow, it was wonderful to see so many people from all walks of Welsh life coming together to celebrate, underline and show our respect to our Welsh language, history and culture.</p>
<p class="last-child">I’d like to thank the Prime Minister for the special emphasis and respect she shows to all four nations of our precious Union, as well as all the guests who made it to Number 10 even with the adverse conditions today.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="alana-spencer-of-ridiculously-rich-by-alana-said">Alana Spencer, of Ridiculously Rich by Alana, said:</h3>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">It was a real honour to come to Downing Street today, and the day was made even more special by the fact that it is to celebrate Welsh food on St David’s day. I feel proud to be a food producer based in Wales and it’s lovely to be recognised alongside other incredible food producers from Wales.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="stephen-davies-of-penderyn-distillery-said">Stephen Davies, of Penderyn Distillery, said:</h3>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">We were thrilled to showcase Penderyn Single Malt at Downing Street on St David’s Day, which is the anniversary of the launch of our Penderyn brand back in 2004. As we are currently targeting a range of new export markets, events like this help give focus to our business and brand in the eyes of our export partners.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="ruth-davies-of-cwm-farm-charcuterie-said">Ruth Davies, of Cwm Farm Charcuterie, said:</h3>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">It was an absolute honour and privilege to be here today and to meet the Prime Minister, and I met some wonderful people who tried our produce. To be given this opportunity as a small producer was just what we needed!</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3795702018-03-06T16:45:32+00:002018-03-06T16:45:32+00:00Press release: PM meeting with Guy Verhofstadt: 6 MarchPrime Minister Theresa May met with Guy Verhofstadt MEP at Downing Street this morning. <div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesman said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>This morning the Prime Minister met Guy Verhofstadt MEP at Downing Street, as part of ongoing engagement with representatives from the European Parliament.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister and Mr Verhofstadt discussed the importance of citizens’ rights, including the proposals the UK put forward last week regarding EU citizens arriving during the implementation period. The Prime Minister reiterated that the expectations of those moving to the UK in this period will not be the same as those who arrived before our withdrawal.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister restated her commitment to avoiding a hard border between Ireland and Northern Ireland and noted the importance of officials from the Irish government, the European Commission and the UK meeting to discuss practical solutions.</p>
<p>They discussed the European Parliament’s proposals for an institutional framework to support a close future relationship between the UK and the EU and the Prime Minister explained the vision for the future economic partnership set out in her Mansion House speech.</p>
<p class="last-child">The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster David Lidington and the Secretary of State for Exiting the EU David Davis attended the meeting. Mr Verhofstadt also met the Home Secretary Amber Rudd after the meeting.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3793282018-03-05T10:40:00+00:002018-03-05T10:40:00+00:00Press release: Prime Minister launches new planning rules to get England delivering homes for everyoneA major overhaul to the National Planning Policy Framework has been launched to deliver the homes the country needs.<div class="govspeak"><p>Maximising the use of land, strengthened protections for the Green Belt and a greater emphasis on converting planning permissions into homes are at the heart of new planning reforms, launched by the Prime Minister today (5 March 2018) to deliver the homes the country needs.</p>
<p>The government has already delivered more than a million homes since 2010, and last year saw the biggest increase in housing supply in England – over 217,000 new homes – for almost a decade.</p>
<p>Although significant progress has been made, we must do more to deliver 300,000 homes a year by the mid-2020s. More planning permissions need to be fast tracked into homes for a generation of first time buyers locked out of the housing market and our increasing older generation need the right homes designed to their needs.</p>
<p>A <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/national-planning-policy-framework-and-developer-contribution-consultations">major overhaul to the National Planning Policy Framework</a>, the first in 6 years, has been launched today providing a comprehensive approach for planners, developers and councils to build more homes, more quickly, in the places people want to live. Councils and developers will now be required to work with community groups to ensure those affected by new developments will have a say on how they look and feel. It will focus on the following areas:</p>
<h4 id="greater-responsibility">Greater responsibility</h4>
<p>Local authorities will have a new housing delivery test focused on driving up the numbers of homes actually delivered in their area, rather than numbers planned for. Developers will also be held to account for delivering the commitments, including affordable housing and the infrastructure needed to support communities.</p>
<h4 id="maximising-the-use-of-land">Maximising the use of land</h4>
<p>More freedom will be given to local authorities to make the most of existing brownfield land to build homes that maximise density. Redundant land will be encouraged such as under utilised retail or industrial space for homes, with more flexibilities given to extend upwards on existing blocks of flats and houses as well as shops and offices. This will mean we can build the homes the country needs while maintaining strong protection for the Green Belt.</p>
<h4 id="maintaining-strong-protections-for-the-environment">Maintaining strong protections for the environment</h4>
<p>Ensuring developments result in a net gain to the environment where possible and increases the protection given to ancient woodland so they are not lost for future generations.</p>
<h4 id="ensuring-the-right-homes-are-built">Ensuring the right homes are built</h4>
<p>Delivering more affordable homes that meet the housing needs of everyone wherever they are in their life, including sites dedicated for first time buyers, build to rent homes with family friendly tenancies, guaranteed affordable homes for key workers and adapted homes for older people.</p>
<h4 id="higher-quality-and-design">Higher quality and design</h4>
<p>Introducing new quality standards so well designed new homes are built in places people are proud to live in and live next door to.</p>
<h4 id="more-transparent-planning-process">More transparent planning process</h4>
<p>Local authorities will be encouraged to work together and continue to close the gap between planning permissions granted and homes built. A new standardised approach to assessing housing need will be introduced with new measures to make the system of developer contributions clearer, simpler and more robust, so developers understand what’s expected of them and will be in no doubt that councils will hold them to their commitments.</p>
<p>Housing Secretary, Sajid Javid, said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>An entire generation is being locked out of a broken housing market as prices and rents race ahead of supply. Reforming the planning system is the crucial next step to building the homes the country needs.</p>
<p>This government is determined to fix the broken housing market and restore the dream of home ownership for a new generation. There is no silver bullet to this problem but we’re re-writing the rules on planning so we can take action on all fronts.</p>
<p class="last-child">In moving to a more integrated society, the focus for everyone, whether a developer or a neighbourhood group, must be to come together to build the homes our communities deserve.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>John Acres, MRTPI, President, The Royal Town Planning Institute, said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>We are delighted to be co-launching the consultation on the new National Planning Policy Framework today and we encourage the planning profession and others who care about planning and what it can do, to feed back to government.</p>
<p>The RTPI will be holding a series of round table sessions for our members around the country to discuss its contents.</p>
<p>Planners are critical to and passionate about building vibrant and connected neighbourhoods, towns, cities and wider areas; at the heart of which we need to ensure we build enough good quality homes that fit the needs of all.</p>
<p class="last-child">A clear, concise and consistent policy context can help to deliver this. We applaud the government’s focus on homes and planning and in revising the framework.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>In a move to ensure that swift and fair planning decisions are made at appeal an end to end review of planning inquiries is also planned.</p>
<p>The planning reform package is part of a wider package of housing reforms; building on the recent £5 billion <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/housing-infrastructure-fund">Housing Infrastructure Fund</a> announced to help unlock new homes in areas with the greatest housing need.</p>
<p>The government has already allocated £866 million to 133 council led projects to fund key local infrastructure including new roads, cycle paths, flood defences and land remediation work, all essential ahead of building the homes.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/draft-revised-national-planning-policy-framework">consultation</a> has launched today to give everyone the opportunity to feed in views on proposals for the future of planning and will run until Thursday 10 May.</p>
<h2 id="further-information">Further information</h2>
<p>Two consultations will run from today to seek views on <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/supporting-housing-delivery-through-developer-contributions">reforming developer contributions to affordable housing and infrastructure</a> and <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/draft-revised-national-planning-policy-framework">text of the National Planning Policy Framework</a>.</p>
<div class="contact postal-address" id="contact_40">
<div class="content">
<h3>Office address and general enquiries</h3>
<div class="vcard contact-inner">
<p class="adr">
<span class="street-address">2 Marsham Street
<br>
London</span><br>
<span class="postal-code">SW1P 4DF</span>
</p>
<div class="email-url-number">
<p class="contact_form_url">
<span class="type">Contact form</span>
<a href="http://forms.communities.gov.uk/">http://forms.communiti...</a>
</p>
<p class="tel">
<span class="type">General enquiries: please use this number if you are a member of the public</span>
030 3444 0000
</p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="contact " id="contact_171">
<div class="content">
<h3>Media enquiries</h3>
<div class="vcard contact-inner">
<div class="email-url-number">
<p class="email">
<span class="type">Email</span>
<a class="email" href="mailto:newsdesk@communities.gsi.gov.uk">newsdesk@communities.gsi.gov.uk</a>
</p>
<p class="tel">
<span class="type">Please use this number if you're a journalist wishing to speak to Press Office</span>
0303 444 1209
</p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="contact " id="contact_3149">
<div class="content">
<h3>Social media - MHCLG</h3>
<div class="vcard contact-inner">
<p class="comments">Twitter - <a href="https://twitter.com/mhclg">https://twitter.com/mhclg</a><br>Flickr - <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mhclg">http://www.flickr.com/photos/mhclg</a><br>LinkedIn - <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/company/mhclg">http://www.linkedin.com/company/mhclg</a></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3793532018-03-04T22:30:00+00:002018-03-04T22:30:00+00:00Press release: PM speech on housing to set out changes to planning rulesPrime Minister Theresa May will make a speech on housing to set out changes to planning rules.<div class="govspeak"><p>Theresa May will today [5 March 2018] warn developers who are too slow to build houses that their past record could count against them when they bid for new planning permissions.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister will also highlight the “perverse incentive” in the bonus structure of some house builders which does not encourage them to build homes that are affordable.</p>
<p>In a speech in London, the PM will say the government is “rewriting the rules on planning” to help developers and local authorities build more properties - restoring the dream of home ownership.</p>
<p>The new planning rules will make the system fairer and more effective by streamlining the process, cutting red tape and ending barriers to building.</p>
<p>While progress has been made in building more homes – over 217,000 new homes were built last year - the PM will say “for decades this country has failed to build enough of the right homes in the right places”.</p>
<p>Speaking at a national planning conference in London, the Prime Minister is expected to say that we “cannot bring about the kind of society I want to see, unless we tackle one of the biggest barriers to social mobility we face today: the national housing crisis.”</p>
<p>She will say “in much of the country, housing is so unaffordable that millions of people who would reasonably expect to buy their own home are unable to do so” and the “failure to match demand with supply really began to push prices upwards”, and “higher prices brought with them higher rents”.</p>
<p>“The result is a vicious circle from which most people can only escape with help from the Bank of Mum and Dad. If you’re not lucky enough to have such support, the door to home ownership is all too often locked and barred.”</p>
<p>She will go on to say:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>I still vividly remember the first home I shared with my husband, Philip. Not only our pictures on the walls and our books on the shelves, but the security that came from knowing we couldn’t be asked to move on at short notice.</p>
<p>And because we had that security, because we had a place to go back to, it was that much easier to play an active role in our community. To share in the common purpose of a free society.</p>
<p class="last-child">That is what this country should be about – not just having a roof over your head but having a stake in your community and its future.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>The Prime Minister will warn that “the gap between permissions granted and homes built is still too large.”</p>
<p>She will say that, when used incorrectly, planning rules can create barriers to building, tying up councils in red tape and allowing some developers to game the system. Once planning permission is granted, a variety of factors can slow down delivery and the Oliver Letwin Review is looking at explaining the gap.</p>
<p>The PM will say:</p>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">this government is rewriting the rules on planning. With the major overhaul being published today, we’re giving councils and developers the backing they need to get more homes built more quickly…The reforms driven forward under our last Prime Minister led to a great and welcome increase in the number of planning permissions granted. But we did not see a corresponding rise in the number of homes being built.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>The new rules will see around 80 of the proposals set out in the Housing White Paper implemented, including using land more efficiently, fast tracking planning permissions into homes, giving greater certainty to local authorities and putting local plans in place to give communities more control.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister will be clear that “it’s also time for builders and developers to step up and do their bit.”</p>
<p>She will say “the bonuses paid to the heads of some of our biggest developers are based not on the number of homes they build but on their profits or share price.”</p>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">In a market where lower supply equals higher prices that creates a perverse incentive, one that does not encourage them to build the homes we need.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>The Prime Minister will highlight some areas where action could be taken, such as:</p>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">allowing councils to take a developer’s previous rate of build-out into account when deciding whether to grant planning permission. I want to see planning permissions going to people who are actually going to build houses, not just sit on land and watch its value rise. Where councils are allocating sufficient land for the homes people need, our new planning rulebook will stop developers building on large sites that aren’t allocated in the plan – something that’s not fair on residents who agree to a plan only to see it ignored.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>She will continue “I expect developers to do their duty to Britain and build the homes our country needs.”</p>
<p>Along with developers, councils also need to ensure local communities are at the heart of the process and they know what infrastructure they will be getting and when. The PM will be clear developers and councils need to work together to meet their communities’ needs in a more joined up way.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister will urge councils to “do all they can to find sites, grant planning permissions and build homes” including through adopting a new nationwide standard that shows how many homes authorities need to plan for in their area.</p>
<p>She will say “our new rules will also see to it that the right infrastructure is in place to support such developments” and the planning changes will also allow more affordable homes prioritised for key workers, including nurses, teachers, and firefighters, and the PM is today enabling local authorities to prioritise these workers.</p>
<p>But the Prime Minister will also be clear that the “answer to our housing crisis does not lie in tearing up the Green Belt.”</p>
<p>She will announce that the government is maintaining existing strong protections, “so that authorities can only amend Green Belt boundaries if they can prove they have fully explored every other reasonable option for building the homes their community needs.” There will also be stronger protections for ancient woodlands and historic coastlines.</p>
<p>Only 10 per cent of England has been built on and only 13 per cent is covered by Green Belt - the purpose of which is to prevent urban sprawl. The PM will be clear that developers and local authorities must only allocate Green Belt sites for development for exceptional reasons. Should development have to go ahead it must first make use of brownfield sites, and where land is removed, they must create new spaces.</p>
<p>This major overhaul to the National Planning Policy Framework, the first in six years, will be launched today to provide a comprehensive approach for planners, developers and councils so they can build the homes this country needs.</p>
<p>The plans will be consulted on over the next 8 weeks – with a final version expected to be published in the summer.</p>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3793182018-03-04T15:38:00+00:002018-03-04T15:38:00+00:00Press release: PM call with President Trump: 4 March 2018Prime Minister Theresa May spoke with US President Donald Trump about Syria, and the appalling humanitarian situation in Eastern Ghouta. <div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said,</p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Prime Minister had a telephone call with President Trump earlier today.</p>
<p>They discussed Syria, and the appalling humanitarian situation in Eastern Ghouta. They agreed it was a humanitarian catastrophe, and that the overwhelming responsibility for the heart-breaking human suffering lay with the Syrian regime and Russia, as the regime’s main backer.</p>
<p>They agreed that Russia and others with influence over the Syrian regime must act now to cease their campaign of violence and to protect civilians.</p>
<p class="last-child">The Prime Minister raised our deep concern at the President’s forthcoming announcement on steel and aluminium tariffs, noting that multilateral action was the only way to resolve the problem of global overcapacity in all parties’ interests.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3793172018-03-04T14:27:00+00:002018-03-04T14:27:00+00:00Press release: PM call with Chancellor Merkel: 4 March 2018Prime Minister Theresa May spoke with German Chancellor Angela Merkel.<div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">The Prime Minister spoke to Chancellor Merkel today to congratulate her following the vote of the Social Democratic Party membership in favour of a grand coalition. Both leaders looked forward to the formation of a new German government and to continuing to work closely together.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3793162018-03-03T12:04:09+00:002018-03-03T12:04:09+00:00Press release: PM call with the First Minister of Scotland: 2 March 2018Prime Minister Theresa May spoke with the First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon.<div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Prime Minister spoke to First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon yesterday evening.</p>
<p>They spoke about the impacts caused across the UK by the adverse weather conditions.</p>
<p>Turning to the speech she made that day, the Prime Minister went on to say that she has set out a vision for an ambitious economic partnership between the UK and EU. Alongside the five foundations that would underpin the future partnership, she said we would seek customs arrangements that would lead to as frictionless trade as possible with our European neighbours, as well as ensure no hard border between Northern Ireland and Ireland. The new agreement we reach should protect the jobs and security of the British people and strengthen the union of nations in the UK.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister then said we would be working closely with the EU to provide certainty for businesses within both the UK and Europe.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister and First Minister discussed recent progress on Clause 11 of the EU Withdrawal Bill and agreed both governments should continue to work to reach an agreement.</p>
<p class="last-child">They finished the call by saying that they both looked forward to furthering discussions during the Plenary meeting of the JMC P on March 14.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3793152018-03-03T11:40:44+00:002018-03-03T11:40:44+00:00Press release: PM call with the First Minister of Wales: 2 March 2018Prime Minister Theresa May spoke with the First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones.<div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Prime Minister spoke to First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones yesterday evening.</p>
<p>Referring to her speech today, the Prime Minister said it was her aim to set out the vision for an ambitious economic partnership between the UK and EU. Alongside the five foundations that would underpin the future partnership, she said we would seek customs arrangements that would lead to as frictionless trade as possible with our European neighbours, as well as ensure no hard border between Northern Ireland and Ireland.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister went on to say that, as she had set out in her speech, the new agreement we reach should protect the jobs and security of the British people and strengthen the union of nations in the UK. She also referred to the importance of continuing to work with our European partners to provide certainty for businesses across the UK and the EU.</p>
<p class="last-child">The Prime Minister and the First Minister said they would look forward to the Plenary meeting of the JMC P on March 14 to take their discussions further.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3792242018-03-01T16:38:23+00:002018-03-01T16:38:23+00:00Press release: PM meeting with Donald Tusk: 1 March 2018Prime Minister Theresa May met President Tusk in Downing Street today.<div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Prime Minister Theresa May today held a positive and constructive meeting with European Council President Donald Tusk in Downing Street.</p>
<p>The two leaders discussed the significant progress that has been made in the Brexit negotiations so far, and looked forward to the European Council in March.</p>
<p>The PM said good progress had been made in reaching agreement on an implementation period and that further discussions would take place between UK and EU officials next week.</p>
<p>The PM was clear that the UK is fully committed to turning the Joint Report agreed in December into legal text as soon as possible. In particular the government remains steadfast in its commitment to avoiding a hard border between Northern Ireland and Ireland.</p>
<p>However, the PM said that the draft text put forward by the European Commission yesterday was unacceptable to the UK as it would, if implemented, undermine the UK common market and constitutional integrity of the UK. The PM reiterated that both she and the Taoiseach have said that their priority is to resolve the border question through the overall relationship between the UK and the EU.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister briefed the President on the speech she will deliver tomorrow on the ambitious economic partnership that she hopes to agree with the European Union. This will sit alongside the deep security partnership that she argued for in her Munich speech last month.</p>
<p class="last-child">The PM said that she hoped that European leaders would engage with this thinking constructively.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3791362018-03-01T00:15:13+00:002018-03-01T00:15:13+00:00Press release: Downing Street hosts St David’s Day reception to celebrate Wales’ national dayWelsh Secretary: “Today’s event celebrates all that Wales has to offer to the world”<div class="govspeak"><p>The Welsh flag will be flying proudly above Downing Street today when Prime Minister Theresa May welcomes guests from Welsh business, tourism, sport and media to a reception to celebrate St David’s Day (1 March).</p>
<p>The very best in Welsh food and drink suppliers will showcase their products at the event including Welsh whisky from Penderyn, wine from Glyndwr Vinyard and Welsh produce from Cwm Farm Charcuterie.</p>
<p>There will also be performances from the London based Welsh choir Cor y Boro, and harpist Rhys Ward-Haugh.</p>
<h3 id="secretary-of-state-for-wales-alun-cairns-said">Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns said:</h3>
<blockquote>
<p>Today’s reception is all about celebrating everything that Wales has to offer to the world – and there is indeed much to celebrate.</p>
<p>We are a proud nation – and a special part of the United Kingdom. And we are home to some of the greatest talent and industry in the world.</p>
<p>We have Welsh entrepreneurs, inventors and creative people leaving an indelible mark all around the globe, each overseeing Wales’ tremendous renaissance in sport, cuisine, arts and business.</p>
<p class="last-child">I’m delighted to join the Prime Minister in welcoming Wales to Downing Street today, and extend my warmest wishes to everyone celebrating St David’s Day around the world.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="notes-to-editors">NOTES TO EDITORS</h3>
<ol>
<li>
<p>Images from the event will be available from the Office of the Secretary of State for Wales communications team post reception.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Suppliers at the St David’s Day reception are:</p>
</li>
</ol>
<ul>
<li>Penderyn - Brecon</li>
<li>Ridiculously Rich - Aberaeron (Alana Spencer ‘Apprentice’ winner)</li>
<li>Tregroes Waffles - Teifi Valley</li>
<li>Jones o Gymru crisps - Conwy</li>
<li>Glyndwr Vineyard - Vale of Glamorgan</li>
<li>Cwm Farm Charcuterie - Neath Port Talbot</li>
<li>Greenacre Market Farm – Llanteg, Pembrokeshire</li>
</ul>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3789962018-02-27T14:56:00+00:002018-02-27T14:56:00+00:00Press release: Visit of Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia to usher in new era in bilateral relationsThe Prime Minister will welcome the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, HRH Mohammed bin Salman, to the United Kingdom from 7 March.<div class="govspeak"><p>Building on the Prime Minister’s visit to Saudi Arabia last autumn, the visit will usher in a new era in bilateral relations focused on a partnership that delivers wide-ranging benefits for both the United Kingdom and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We will also enhance our co-operation in tackling international challenges such as terrorism, extremism, the conflict and humanitarian crisis in Yemen and other regional issues such as Iraq and Syria.</p>
<p>This will be the Crown Prince’s first visit to the UK since his appointment in June 2017 and since Saudi Arabia embarked on a major programme of domestic reforms. These include lifting the ban on women driving from June this year, opening up attendance at major sporting events to women and allowing cinemas to operate in the country.</p>
<p>Saudi Arabia has also set out a roadmap – Vision 2030 – to catalyse and open up the country’s economy over the next 15 years, which will provide opportunities for British businesses to help support delivery in areas such as education, entertainment and healthcare where they have world-class expertise.</p>
<p>The roadmap includes plans to become a global investment powerhouse with a more diversified economy and the visit will provide an opportunity to explore ways in which Saudi Arabia can, working with the City of London, achieve this goal and build on its investment here in the UK in sectors such as infrastructure.</p>
<p>During the visit, the Crown Prince will have a bilateral with the Prime Minister and meetings with other Cabinet Ministers.</p>
<p>Speaking ahead of the visit, the Prime Minister said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>The partnership between the UK and Saudi Arabia already helps make both of our countries safer through intelligence-sharing which has saved British lives, and more prosperous, with thousands of jobs created in the UK and substantial opportunities for British companies in Saudi Arabia. The visit of the Crown Prince will establish the platform for that relationship to become even stronger.</p>
<p>Saudi Arabia is changing. We have seen recent decisions to allow women to drive from June this year, a target for women to make up one third of the Saudi workforce by 2030, and a move to develop sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, recreation and tourism. These are all sectors where the UK leads the world and where there are new opportunities to work together.</p>
<p>Our strong relationship with Saudi Arabia enables us to talk frankly and constructively about issues where we both have concerns, such as regional security and the conflict and humanitarian situation in Yemen.</p>
<p class="last-child">Our vision for Global Britain is that of an outward-looking country strengthening our relationships around the world and standing up for our values, not turning in on ourselves and refusing to engage. And the Crown Prince’s visit will be an opportunity to do just that for the benefit of people here at home and in Saudi Arabia.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Further details of the visit will be made available in due course.</p>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3789742018-02-27T12:04:30+00:002018-02-27T12:04:30+00:00Press release: PM call with Taoiseach Varadkar: 27 February 2018Prime Minister Theresa May spoke on the phone with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar of Ireland.<div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">Yesterday evening the Prime Minister spoke to the Taoiseach on the Brexit negotiations and the situation in Northern Ireland.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">The PM reaffirmed our commitment, as set out in the Joint Report, to avoiding a hard border between Northern Ireland and Ireland or between Northern Ireland and the rest of the United Kingdom and to converting all of these commitments into legal text in the coming months.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">The PM and the Taoiseach both agreed that it was their preference to achieve this through the overall future relationship between the UK and the EU. The PM advised that she would say more on this future relationship in her speech on Friday.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">The leaders also discussed the current political situation in Northern Ireland. The Prime Minister said she had met with both Sinn Fein and the DUP last week and that she still believes a basis for accommodation remains. They committed to remain in touch on this.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3789322018-02-26T23:43:00+00:002018-02-26T23:43:00+00:00Press release: PM welcomes Western Balkans Heads of Government to LondonThe Prime Minister welcomed the Heads of Government of 6 Western Balkans countries to Downing Street today for talks ahead of the Western Balkans Summit in London in July.<div class="govspeak"><p>At a reception also attended by the Foreign Secretary, Home Secretary, Minister for Europe and the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster the Prime Minister briefed the visiting leaders on the UK’s objectives for the upcoming Summit. She also sought their views on achieving our shared goals for the region.</p>
<p>Speaking at the reception the Prime Minister said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Our relationship endures because all of us in this room share the same vision for the future of the Western Balkans. We want a peaceful, prosperous and democratic region – one anchored to European values and systems and contributing to European security.</p>
<p>The countries of the Western Balkans have tremendous potential. And it’s the people here in this room tonight who have a crucial role in harnessing that potential. By putting in place the governance, rule of law and institutions to support prosperity and by building relations between your countries that shape a promising future for all.</p>
<p>The UK will support you in that. Your challenges are our challenges. European security, serious and organised crime, illegal migration, terrorism and extremism; these are all threats that go beyond borders. So I want to deepen further our security partnership to address these shared threats.</p>
<p>At the Summit we will take forward a bold agenda. One that promotes economic stability and fosters co-operation on the security and political challenges that the region continues to face.</p>
<p>We will continue the good work begun by previous Summits, taking forward initiatives countering corruption, serious and organised crime, and other issues that deter investment and economic growth.</p>
<p class="last-child">I look forward to working with you to shape a positive, productive, prosperous future for the Western Balkans, for the UK and the whole of Europe.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Heads of Government from the region who attended included:</p>
<ul>
<li>Edi Rama, Prime Minister of Albania</li>
<li>Denis Zvizdic, Chairman of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina</li>
<li>Ramush Haradinaj, Prime Minister of Kosovo</li>
<li>Zoran Zaev, Prime Minister of Macedonia</li>
<li>Dusko Markovic, Prime Minister of Montenegro</li>
<li>Ana Brnabic, Prime Minister of Serbia</li>
</ul>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3789132018-02-26T16:51:57+00:002018-02-26T16:51:57+00:00Press release: PM call with Prime Minister Abe: 26 February 2018Prime Minister Theresa May spoke on the phone with Prime Minister Abe of Japan.<div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>This morning the Prime Minister spoke to Prime Minister Abe of Japan. The leaders noted the positive impact of the Prime Minister’s visit to Japan last year and the significant progress made in a range of areas. In particular they welcomed the meeting between UK and Japanese Foreign and Defence Ministers and the first UK-Japan Industrial Policy Dialogue, both of which took place in December last year.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister updated Prime Minister Abe on her meeting with senior Japanese business leaders at Downing Street earlier this month and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring the UK remains welcoming to Japanese companies.</p>
<p class="last-child">They discussed the Prime Minister’s recent visit to China, and in particular North Korea, where they agreed on the need for the international community to continue to work together to maintain pressure on North Korea to cease its destabilising activity. The Prime Minister reiterated that the UK will continue to support all efforts to maintain and properly implement sanctions.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3785162018-02-22T10:13:43+00:002018-02-22T10:13:43+00:00Press release: PM hosts Chinese New Year reception at Downing StreetPrime Minister Theresa May welcomed guests to Number 10 to celebrate the beginning of the Year of the Dog.<div class="govspeak"><p>Theresa May has hosted a Chinese New Year reception at Downing Street to celebrate the enormous contribution of the Chinese community to British life and a ‘Golden Era’ for UK-China relations.</p>
<p>On Wednesday (21 February) the Prime Minister welcomed a number of Chinese students in Britain who are involved in higher education and language learning exchanges. She highlighted the academic achievements of the community and the talent they bring to our educational institutions, and pointed to the huge learning benefits to both countries through partnerships such as the UK-China mathematics teacher exchange, which has been extended for a further two years to 2020.</p>
<p>Building on her recent trip to China alongside 50 businesses and organisations from across the country, the Prime Minister also welcomed guests from a range of sectors with trade links to China.</p>
<p>British nursery provider Busy Bees, who secured a significant early years education deal with the Oriental Cambridge Education Group during the Prime Minister’s visit to China, were also in attendance. The partnership between these two businesses will generate £75m in exports in the next five years and deploy 20 British teachers to China each year.</p>
<p>Andrew Wong, Head Chef and owner of Michelin star restaurant A. Wong in London’s Victoria, was the guest chef for the reception.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister also presented James Wong, Chair of the Birmingham Chinese Festival Committee, with a Point of Light Award in recognition of his inspiring work to attract thousands of visitors to the city, creating the UK’s largest Chinese New Year festival. His restaurant also gives hundreds of free meals to elderly people in the local community.</p>
<p>Prime Minister Theresa May said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>It was great to welcome people from all parts of the United Kingdom to Downing Street to celebrate Chinese New Year, the vibrancy of the Chinese community in Britain, and the deepening ties between our two countries.
I was delighted to take a 50-strong business delegation with me on my recent trip to China, and found a real enthusiasm for the links between us and the opportunities we share.</p>
<p>But the ties that bind our country are of course about more than just business – they’re about people.</p>
<p>James Wong’s huge contribution to life in Birmingham is one shining example of someone who has helped broaden and deepen our cultural ties and I was pleased to award him a Point of Light.</p>
<p class="last-child">I would like to extend my best wishes to everyone celebrating this special day, as we mark the Year of the Dog and a golden era of UK-China relations.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>James Wong, Chair of Birmingham Chinese Festival Committee, said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>I’m fiercely passionate about raising awareness of Chinese culture and supporting the Chinese community.</p>
<p class="last-child">Birmingham is a fantastic, multicultural city that endorses diversity and I feel fortunate to have had the backing of so many wonderful friends and colleagues on the ‘Chinese Festival Committee’ and beyond. I look forward to seeing our great city continue to work closely and hopefully welcome more investment from China in years to come.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Andrew Wong, Head Chef at A. Wong and guest chef at the reception, said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Chinese New Year is the biggest celebration for my family and for the whole of China, and it’s a time of year where family time is truly celebrated.</p>
<p class="last-child">It’s wonderful that Downing Street takes the time out to celebrate this event and to celebrate the diversity of London – and obviously the Chinese community is a big part of that diversity.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3784962018-02-21T19:43:11+00:002018-02-21T19:43:11+00:00Press release: PM meetings with the leaders of the DUP and Sinn Fein: 21 February 2018The Prime Minister Theresa May had meetings with the leaders of the DUP and Sinn Fein on restoring devolved government to Northern Ireland.<div class="govspeak"><p>A No 10 spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>This afternoon, the Prime Minister had meetings with the leaders of the DUP and Sinn Fein on restoring devolved government to Northern Ireland.</p>
<p>In both meetings, she said it was important for everyone to reflect on the circumstances which have led to this and their positions, so a way forward could be found to restore an Executive.</p>
<p>She made clear how the UK government remains steadfast in its commitment to the Belfast Agreement and its successors and reiterated that devolved government is in the best interests of the people in Northern Ireland.</p>
<p>On next steps, she set out how the Northern Ireland Secretary would continue to work intensively with the parties on the basis for an agreement.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister also made clear how challenging decisions lay ahead as the UK government has a responsibility to ensure the continued delivery of public services in Northern Ireland.</p>
<p class="last-child">On the weeks ahead, she said she will be working closely with the Northern Ireland Secretary and will continue to engage with the parties and the Irish Government.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3784952018-02-21T19:16:35+00:002018-02-21T19:16:35+00:00Press release: PM meeting with the PM of the Netherlands: 21 February 2018The Prime Minister Theresa May met with Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands today.<div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Prime Minister Theresa May hosted Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands for a working lunch at Downing Street this afternoon.</p>
<p>Mrs May began by welcoming the new Eurostar route between the UK and the Netherlands, noting that this will bring the two countries who already share close ties, even closer.</p>
<p>She then gave an update on Brexit negotiations with both leaders agreeing on the importance of concluding the terms of the implementation period in March and the terms of the future partnership as soon as possible.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister set out her vision for a bold future economic partnership with the Netherlands and the whole of the EU after the UK leaves, stressing that we should all be optimistic and flexible to achieve a trading relationship which is as frictionless as possible, which Prime Minister Rutte welcomed.</p>
<p class="last-child">Finally, both leaders discussed the importance of the role that the UK and Dutch forces were both playing in the Baltics and expressed their wish to continue to work closely together on their shared security issues.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3783192018-02-19T21:19:25+00:002018-02-19T21:19:25+00:00Press release: PM call with Taioseach: 19 February 2018Prime Minister Theresa May spoke with Irish Taioseach Leo Varadkar on the phone about recent political talks in Northern Ireland.<div class="govspeak"><p>A No 10 spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Prime Minister spoke to Taoiseach Leo Varadkar on the phone earlier this evening.</p>
<p>They spoke about the recent phase of political talks in Northern Ireland and of their disappointment that an agreement had not yet been reached to restore an Executive.</p>
<p>Both leaders recognised the progress and serious engagement made by the parties.</p>
<p class="last-child">The Prime Minister said she believed there was scope for agreement and reiterated the UK Government’s priority was still to get devolution up and running again in Northern Ireland.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">They agreed to continue to stay in close contact as the parties reflect on the best way forward to re-establish devolved Government in Northern Ireland.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3782452018-02-18T22:45:05+00:002018-02-18T22:45:05+00:00Press release: PM to give speech on education to mark launch of post-18 education and funding reviewPrime Minister Theresa May will launch a wide-ranging review into post-18 education in a speech in Derbyshire.<div class="govspeak"><ul>
<li>PM to warn against “outdated attitude” that favours academic over technical qualifications</li>
<li>new education review will break down “false boundaries” to look at whole post-18 system</li>
<li>review to identify ways to help young people make more effective choices when they leave school</li>
<li>PM will acknowledge concerns with the current funding system and pledge to make it fairer</li>
<li>speech will set out PM’s vision for an education system that truly serves the needs of every child</li>
</ul>
<p>Theresa May will urge people to “throw away” the “outdated attitude” that university is the only desirable route for young people and that going into vocational training “is something for other people’s children”.</p>
<p>In a speech in Derbyshire to launch a wide-ranging review into post-18 education, the Prime Minister will call for a parity of esteem between academic and technical options so we can “create a system of tertiary education that works for all our young people”.</p>
<p>She will say that “means equality of access to an academic university education which is not dependent on your background, and it means a much greater focus on the technical alternatives too.”</p>
<p>The government-led review – supported by an independent, external chair and panel – will identify ways to help people make more effective choices between the different options available after 18.</p>
<p>This could include giving young people better guidance about the earning potential of different jobs and what different qualifications are needed to get them, so they can make more informed decisions about their futures.</p>
<p>For those who retrain during their career, the review will also look at how to support flexible life-long learning, including part-time and distance learning.</p>
<p>The PM will pledge to use the review to look at “the whole post-18 education sector in the round, breaking down false boundaries between further and higher education, so we can create a system which is truly joined up.”</p>
<p>She is expected to warn that while significant progress in education reform over recent years has succeeded in driving up school standards and improving the choice and quality of technical education, the current post-18 system is not working as well as it could be - for young people or for the country.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister will continue: “For those young people who do not go on to academic study, the routes into further technical and vocational training today are hard to navigate, the standards across the sector are too varied and the funding available to support them is patchy.</p>
<blockquote>
<p class="last-child">So now is the time to take action to create a system that is flexible enough to ensure that everyone gets the education that suits them.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>There are now record numbers of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds going to university, and the government is determined to build on this progress.</p>
<p>The Prime Minister will say today: “One of the great social achievements of the last half-century has been the transformation of an academic university education from something enjoyed almost-exclusively by a social elite into something which is open to everyone.”</p>
<p>She will set out her commitment to continuing to ensure “that people from all backgrounds share the benefit of university study.”</p>
<p>On the question of student finance, the Prime Minister will acknowledge that many young people, their parents and grandparents, have serious concerns – which she shares – about aspects of the current system.</p>
<p>She will confirm that the review will examine the whole system of student funding – including how it provides value for money, both for students and taxpayers, and how students and graduates contribute to the cost of their studies.</p>
<p>She will say: “The competitive market between universities which the system of variable tuition fees envisaged has simply not emerged. All but a handful of universities charge the maximum possible fees for undergraduate courses. Three-year courses remain the norm. And the level of fees charged do not relate to the cost or quality of the course. We now have one of the most expensive systems of university tuition in the world.”</p>
<p>She will also note that the goal of making university truly accessible to young people from every background “is not made easier by a funding system which leaves students from the lowest-income households bearing the highest levels of debt, with many graduates left questioning the return they get for their investment.”</p>
<p>And she will say that the review “will examine how we can give people from disadvantaged backgrounds an equal chance to succeed. That includes how disadvantaged students and learners receive maintenance support, both from government and universities and colleges.”</p>
<p>Recalling her maiden speech in Parliament in 1997, in which she set out her belief that the aim of education policy should be to “provide the right education for every child”, the Prime Minister will use today’s speech to restate her long-held view that “education is the key to opening up opportunity for everyone.”</p>
<p>And she will say that, by building an education system which unlocks everyone’s talents, “we can build a country that truly does work for everyone.</p>
<p>She will add: “A country where your background does not define your future, and class distinctions are a thing of the past. Where a boy from a working-class home can become a High Court judge, thanks to a great state education. And where a girl from a private school can start a software business, thanks to a first-class technical education.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>That is my vision for a fairer society and how we will deliver it. A society where good, rewarding work is available for everyone. An economy with the skills it needs to succeed.</p>
<p class="last-child">Britain as the Great Meritocracy, a country that respects hard work, rewards effort and industry, where a happy and fulfilled life is within everyone’s grasp.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>The panel’s report will be published at an interim stage and the review will conclude in early 2019.</p>
</div>tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/3782442018-02-18T18:08:35+00:002018-02-18T18:08:35+00:00Press release: PM call with the President of South Africa: 18 February 2018Prime Minister Theresa May spoke to President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa to congratulate him on his recent appointment.<div class="govspeak"><p>A Downing Street spokesperson said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Prime Minister called President Cyril Ramaphosa this afternoon to congratulate him on his recent appointment.</p>
<p>Ramaphosa welcomed the call which followed their short discussion at the World Economic Forum, and the Prime Minister extended an invitation for him to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in April.</p>
<p class="last-child">President Ramaphosa confirmed that he looked forward to attending and using the opportunity to discuss deepening the UK-South Africa relationship, including by building on trade ties and working together on South Africa’s transformation agenda.</p>
</blockquote>
</div>